Mirka® DEROS RS Q&A with Neil Newbrook

What are the main differences between the Mirka® DEROS II and the Mirka® DEROS RS?

The fundamental difference between the two sanders is that the original Mirka® DEROS and DEROS II are random orbital machines, whereas the Mirka® DEROS RS is a rotary sander. This means the Mirka® DEROS RS is more efficient on hard surfaces and for aggressive applications. The Mirka® DEROS RS is a two-handed machine and the DEROS II can be used with either one hand or two. As the Mirka® DEROS RS is designed for tough applications, we have given this machine a 750w brushless motor, compared to the 400w in a Mirka® DEROS II 650.  

The tool has been available for a few months now, what has the feedback from end users been?

The first thing that users seem to notice is just how quiet the machine is. I think people are expecting a rotary sander to be noisy, or maybe that is what they are used to, but the Mirka® DEROS RS is very quiet compared to other rotary machines.

What applications would see the most benefit from the Mirka® DEROS RS?

The Mirka® DEROS RS has been designed to tackle heavy-duty applications such as paint stripping, solid surface, hardwoods and composites. We have also had truly incredible feedback from users who work with microcement.

Can I use the Mirka® DEROS RS for sanding walls?

For general sanding of walls, I would recommend a random orbital sander such as the Mirka® LEROS or Mirka® DEROS II, as the finish would be much better. 

Would you recommend any particular abrasives for the Mirka® DEROS RS?

I expect a lot of users would use the Mirka® DEROS RS on hard surfaces, so something with a silicon carbide or ceramic grain would be the best option. Specifically, we would recommend Abranet® Ace HD, which has ceramic grains and a strong net backing, which helps with dust extraction.

You mentioned that the Mirka® DEROS RS is an electric sander designed for heavy duty applications; I assume it is heavier than the Mirka® DEROS II?

Not as much as you may think! The Mirka® DEROS RS is 700g heavier than a Mirka® DEROS II 650. At 1.8kg, the Mirka® DEROS RS is very lightweight compared to other 150mm rotary electric sanders. The Mirka® DEROS RS is bigger compared to the DEROS II, as it is designed for two-handed use.

What else can you tell me about the ergonomics of the Mika® DEROS RS?

As I just mentioned, the Mirka® DEROS RS is designed to be used with two hands and features two ergonomic holds. As well as this, the sander has a very low profile which the DEROS range is famous for. The Mirka® DEROS RS also has an anti-vibration system to help keep vibrations low and protect against HAVs.

Finally, what is your favourite feature of the Mirka® DEROS RS?

I love all the small details that have been considered. An example of this is the little window for the spanner when you change the backing pad. Small details like this can make a big difference to the user experience.